Garcia's French Open Hopes Hanging in Balance After Back Setback

Caroline Garcia withdraws from Madrid Open due to a back injury, casting doubts on her participation in the French Open.

French tennis player Caroline Garcia is facing uncertainty over her participation in the French Open due to a back injury. The 31-year-old former world number four has withdrawn from the Madrid Open and is also a doubt for the Rome event.

Garcia announced her withdrawal from Madrid on social media, saying, “After more tests on my back, it's clear I won't be able to play in Madrid.” She added that she needs time for treatment and recovery, with her primary goal being to arrive strong and healthy for the French Open. “I'll do everything I can to be ready for Rome, but the main goal is to arrive strong and healthy for Roland Garros,” Garcia stated.

After more tests on my back, it’s clear I won’t be able to play in Madrid. I need to take some time for treatment and recovery. I’ll do everything I can to be ready for Rome, but the main goal is to arrive strong and healthy for Roland Garros.

It’s tough to accept. After the… pic.twitter.com/hZxtiO5yWI

— Caroline Garcia (@CaroGarcia) April 18, 2025

As one of France's top players, Garcia has often been seen as a potential champion at Roland Garros. Despite her successes, including winning the WTA Finals in 2022 and reaching the US Open semifinals that year, she has yet to cross the quarterfinal hurdle at the French Open.

Caroline Garcia's 2024 season was cut short in September due to anxiety and panic attacks. Now, she's facing a new challenge with a back injury, which she's finding difficult to accept. “After the break last year, I came back feeling happier, clearer and more motivated. The results weren't there yet, but I truly believed in the path I was on,” Garcia said. “This setback hurts - but I'll use it to come back stronger.”

Despite the current setback, Garcia remains focused on her goals, particularly regarding the French Open. “Right now, it's about controlling what I can, keeping perspective and finding ways to embrace the journey - even on the hard days,” she added. Garcia's determination to succeed is evident in her words: “Paris is still the dream... I'll keep fighting for it.”